A MAJOR effort to keep Ireland on the move was under way last night as transport companies and local authorities worked on ensuring that road, rail and air routes remain open during the big freeze.

Motorists were advised not to make unnecessary journeys and to use public transport where possible.

Despite the freezing conditions, Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports were fully operational yesterday with just some "minor delays" to flights.

A spokesperson for the Dublin Airport Authority said they were confident they would be able to deal with the expected snow falls this week.

Irish Rail said all its Intercity, DART and commuter services were operated fully "despite the Arctic conditions across the country" and full services were expected to operate today.

It said maintenance work on points and level crossings was being stepped up to ensure services stayed on schedule.

Workers from Dublin Bus will monitor its routes from 5am each morning this week to assess conditions.

Over the weekend, icy roads caused the cancellation and curtailment of a number of routes. Buses were also forced to travel slower and passengers are being advised to expect delays throughout this week.

Bus Eireann said the vast majority of its services operated throughout yesterday. But its Rosslare-Dublin airport service could only operate as far as Gorey, while the Wicklow-Arklow service was disrupted.

AA Roadwatch warned that roads would be treacherous this morning. Motorists were warned not to make any unnecessary journeys, to reduce speed and to keep a safe distance from other vehicles.